The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued a significant reminder regarding tax filing and payment deadlines for individuals and businesses in areas affected by 2024 disaster declarations.
Taxpayers in these areas will see their 2024 federal income tax returns and payments extended, with the new deadline set for May 1, 2025.
IRS Deadline for Affected Taxpayers
For those living in regions impacted by FEMA disaster declarations, the IRS has announced that the deadline for 2024 tax returns and payments has been pushed to May 1, 2025.
This update affects individuals and businesses residing in eligible disaster areas. The IRS emphasizes that taxpayers in designated areas do not need to request an extension.
If your taxpayer’s address is located within one of these disaster zones, you will automatically receive the additional time.
Eligible Localities Affected by 2024 Disaster Declarations
The IRS lists areas where tax relief applies due to 2024 disaster declarations. These include states where both individuals and businesses are eligible for postponed tax filing and payment deadlines. Below is the list of affected states and regions:
| State/Region | Affected Areas |
|---|---|
| Alabama | All areas affected |
| Florida | All areas affected |
| Georgia | All areas affected |
| North Carolina | All areas affected |
| South Carolina | All areas affected |
| Virginia | Specific counties and cities (see detailed list) |
| Alaska | City and Borough of Juneau |
| New Mexico | Chaves County |
| Tennessee | Several counties (see detailed list) |
For a full list of eligible locations, you can visit the IRS website at the Tax Relief in Disaster Situations section: IRS Disaster Relief.
How to Check if You Are Eligible for Relief
To determine whether you qualify for the tax relief, taxpayers should check if their address of record is in an IRS-designated disaster area.
If you are located in one of these areas, the IRS automatically grants an extension on your tax filing and payment deadlines. There is no need to file a special request unless you require additional extensions beyond May 1, 2025.
Requesting an Extension Beyond May 1, 2025
For taxpayers who need further extensions beyond the May 1 deadline, the IRS allows for filing extensions. However, this extension does not apply to the payment of taxes; it only applies to filing your tax return.
- How to request an extension:
- Taxpayers not in a disaster area: You must file your extension electronically before April 15, 2025.
- Taxpayers in disaster areas: You must file paper Form 4868 (Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return).
With this extension, affected taxpayers will have until October 15, 2025 to file their tax returns.
The IRS’s extension of the tax filing deadline for disaster-affected areas provides much-needed relief for taxpayers in these regions. If you are in a designated area, your 2024 tax returns and payments are due by May 1, 2025.
However, if you require additional time to file, make sure to request an extension before the deadline. This tax relief offers flexibility for affected taxpayers, ensuring they have ample time to meet their obligations without incurring penalties.
FAQs
Can I get an extension if I am not in a disaster area?
Yes, if you are not in a disaster zone, you can still request an extension. Make sure to submit your request electronically by April 15, 2025.
Do I need to file an extension if I’m in a disaster area?
No, if you are in a designated disaster area, you do not need to request an extension. The IRS automatically grants you extra time until May 1, 2025.
Can I get an extension beyond May 1, 2025?
Yes, you can request an extension beyond the May 1 deadline. However, this will only extend your time to file, not to pay. You must submit Form 4868 if you’re in a disaster area or file electronically if you’re not.